Q-and-A: Betty White on her world record, her favorite works, and getting started on TV

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Guinness World Records is happy to announce Betty White's inclusion in the 2014 edition of its world famous record book, in stores Sept. 12.

The TV star earned the record for “Longest TV Career for an Entertainer (Female),” spanning 74 years of work in the industry. Making her debut in 1939, the queen of the small screen has appeared in some of television’s most popular shows, including "The Golden Girls," "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," and "The Carol Burnett Show."

Currently starring in "Hot in Cleveland," the legendary 91-year-old entertainer shows no signs of stopping and recently took a few moments to answer some questions from GWR.

GWR: How does it feel to be the Guinness World Records title holder for having the Longest Television Career as an Entertainer?

BW: "I was astounded when they called to tell me. 'Who? Me!?!' It's such an honor."

GWR: Any fond memories of the Guinness World Records book?

BW: "The book has always been fascinating to me. I can't believe I'm now associated with it. I am amazed at some of the records they keep. The longest fingernails?!?"

GWR: Throughout all of your appearances, which project was your absolute favorite.

BW: "I had many favorites. The 'Pet Set' and 'Golden Girls' just to name a few. Especially the former, as I wrote and produced it and could have on any animals I wanted."

GWR: What advice would you give to any fledgling young actors?

BW: "I would advise actors to do their homework and take the time to appreciate their profession. It is a privilege to do what we do."

GWR: On the other hand, what do you miss most about the good ol' days?

GWR: Give us some good, PG-rated gossip - any stories of legendary Hollywood parties or behind the scenes shenanigans with other celebrities you can share?

BW: "You're probably asking the wrong person. I'm not a party girl, but if I were it would be lovely to be at the same party as Robert Redford. I have a chronic crush on him."

GWR: What's one thing about you that people would be surprised to find out - any secret talent, unique fears, favorite foods, etc.?

BW: "Having been around for as long as I have, there are no secrets left. I am an avid crossword puzzle addict, and although I am known for my animal health and welfare work, people might be surprised to hear I am a nature nut as well!"

GWR: Tell us about your very first appearance on television in 1939.

BW: "I danced on an experimental TV show, the first on the west coast, in downtown Los Angeles. I wore my high school graduation dress and our Beverly Hills High student body president, Harry Bennett, and I danced the Merry Widow Waltz. Later, Al Jarvis (a disc jockey) asked me to sit in as his girl Friday (5 1/2 hours a day, six days a week.). Four years later, I inherited the show."

GWR: If you weren't an actor, are there any other professions you might have considered?

BW: "Hands down, a zookeeper."

GWR: In your 75 year tenure, do you have any career regrets?

BW: "I have no regrets at all. None. I consider myself to be the luckiest old broad on two feet."

For more updates as they happen on the upcoming Guinness World Records 2014 edition, visit www.guinnessworldrecords.com/2014. Be sure to get your copy in stores or online Sept. 12.